Rapid Creation of Optimised Train Timetables Rail Demonstrations

CFMS is proposing to deliver and demonstrate a unique tool for rapidly optimising train timetables during extreme weather events, delivering a step change in the way in which train operating companies respond to the increasing occurrence of extreme weather. The project will collaborate with GWR & Avanti West Coast to develop, evaluate and demonstrate the benefits of the tool.

When extreme weather such as heat waves or heavy rain and flooding are forecast, temporary speed restrictions and line closures are imposed on parts of the network, typically with a few days' notice. This leaves planning teams only 24 to 48 hours to adjust timetables, putting a strain on resources leading to the creation of sub-optimal timetables, resulting in a reduction in service and financial penalty payments being incurred.

CFMS proposes utilising parallel, distributed optimisation techniques coupled with high performance compute systems to perform automated timetable optimisation. This will use CFMS's robust timetable optimisation technology developed and validated on representative data on several projects including in the rail sector. The tool will run a very large number of possible timetables in parallel using high performance compute facilities allowing an optimal set of timetables prioritising different goals to be determined. An API will be developed to allow easy use of the tool and integration with other systems.

The tool will be developed with close collaboration with train operating companies, including GWR & Avanti. Using real data it will evaluate and demonstrate to a wide reaching audience the transformational efficiency, performance improvements and large scale savings that the tool is capable of delivering for the rail sector.